Ocean Pines Book 3: The Spring We Ignited by Victoria Denault

Ocean Pines Book 3

I married the wrong brother, but for the right reasons.

My life was a mess when I started working at Hawkins Lobster Shack. Declan Hawkins was a mess too, and he swore marrying would solve both our problems. He wasn’t wrong. And I wasn’t unhappy.

There was love. It was good… until it wasn’t.

Now my marriage is over and my husband left town, leaving me alone to face the confused and hurt faces of our friends and his family.

So when his brother Finn suggests he become my fake husband so we can take that vacation Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins won, I don’t say no. I need a break from the judging eyes of Ocean Pines.

Pretending Finn’s my husband is playing with fire because my long buried feelings for him are coming back to life.

And I still have secrets to keep. Secrets that aren’t mine to share. Secrets that, if revealed, could burn this small town, and any feelings Finn might have for me, to the ground.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60380585-the-spring-we-ignited

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

It's been months since Nova's husband, Declan, has left and they are on their way to a divorce. While his family is both outraged and devastated that he left Nova and them, Nova is the only one who truly knows the real reason. When Nova married Declan, they were helping each other. And sure there was love for a bit but deep down both knew it wasn't the forever love. And though Nova is mad that Declan gave her no warning, she understands. Too bad his family doesn't. Especially Finn. Finn who was her crush and best friend before she married Declan, but she couldn't complicate his life and even dare tell him the secrets she kept. She would have tried but when Finn wasn't there, Declan was. But now everything has changed. And those feelings for Finn are making an appearance once more. But a relationship with her ex-brother-in-law? Sounds way too complicated. As for Finn, well, he's been in love with Nova the moment he met her. She was his best friend too and before anything had a chance at happening, suddenly she is married to his brother. So Finn has kept his heart and mouth shut for all these years. Never would be betray or hurt either of them. His feelings may not ever go away but as long as Nova was happy, he could live with that. But now Declan is gone, and soon they find themselves on a weekend getaway alone. Perhaps some secrets will start to be revealed. Loved this one! Totally complicated but getting to that ending everything was making sense and turning out right for all. And I'm really looking forward to the next book! But Finn and Nova were great. They are finally right where they want to be and everyone is getting their chance at happiness. Really liking this series and like I said I can't wait to get Declan's story next. 

 

Ocean Pines Book 2: The Winter We Collided by Victoria Denault

Ocean Pines Book 2

All it took was a blizzard and a pair of sky-blue eyes to break me.

I had one rule when I decided to rent out the ground level of my house – keep it professional. So I have no idea why I told the hospital to call my new tenant, Logan Hawkins, when I ended up unconscious in the snow. It was impossible to keep my distance from the brooding single dad after he came to my rescue.

My past is tragic with a capital T so I decide to keep it to myself for as long as I can. That way maybe Logan won’t run, like everyone else. I want his touch… his love. Not his sympathy.

But he’s been keeping secrets of his own. The more time we spend together the more I want to confess, and I want to know what has been turning those sky-blue eyes stormy when he thinks I’m not looking.

They say the truth will set you free, but in this case, it might shatter what’s left of my fragile heart.

The Winter We Collided, book 2 in the Ocean Pines series, is a sexy, single dad romance featuring a brooding, buff paramedic and the shy, secretive new girl in town. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58345825-the-winter-we-collided

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

5 years ago, Logan hit rock bottom. And when he did, his family was able to get him help and send him to rehab to deal with alcoholism. Now, he is better than he has been. He has been sober since then, has done whatever he can to be there for his kid, and has dedicated his career as a paramedic at the firehouse. Despite the ups, he still struggles with feeling guilty of that terrible day that changed his life. It not only harmed others but his family as well. His focus on his own happiness hasn't been a thing until he meets her. Chloe. Chloe runs into Logan when she is hired by Logan's sister, Terra, to create a website and app for their family business. In doing so, she soon finds herself with a tenant to live in the apartment attached to her home. Chloe has had a rough five years herself when she not only had a rough recovery from a car accident but lost her husband in that crash as well. So what is about Logan that makes her want to try and fall in love again? At first they keep their distance, but when an accident lands Chloe with a bad concussion, Logan is the one to help her through it. Both have their secrets and little do they know how close those secrets are to one another. Loved their story! But boy, was I on the edge of my seat wondering if what I thought happened, happened, and how would that play out for them. Really enjoying this series so far! Looking forward to the next one. 

Ocean Pines Book 1: The Fall We Fell by Victoria Denault

Ocean Pines Book 1

I thought proving myself worthy of her love would be the hard part. If only…

When I left my childhood small town, I had a lot to prove. Now, I have a lot to fix. Namely, my relationship with my best friends’ little sister.

We were just kids when I rejected Terra. Even then, I knew I was nowhere near good enough for her.

I was sure I’d eventually forget her. But a decade later, working as a firefighter, the one flame I can’t put out is the one I hold for her.

So I’m back in Ocean Pines, but Terra’s moved on with someone who doesn’t have my history of bad decisions and impulsive behavior.

And as if all that wasn’t enough, she’s sick. I’ll give her a kidney, my heart, the last breath in my lungs…anything she wants.

I’ll do anything to save her life, even if it means watching her live it without me.

The Fall We Fell, book one in the Ocean Pines series, is a sexy, angsty, friends-to-lovers contemporary romance featuring a firefighter who’ll do anything to win the smart, strong heroine of his dreams. Happily ever after and no cheating guaranteed.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57587717-the-fall-we-fell

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

Talk about bad timing, some miscommunications, and some pretty bad inconveniences. The story starts with a prologue of a teenage Terra and Jake. Terra has recently learned that she has lupus and will be feeling sick basically for the rest of her life. She and her best friend attend a party with her four older brothers and the guy who is basically family and also her teenage crush. But when the party ends up with a game and Terra and Jake in a closet, Terra's heart starts breaking. Jake won't ruin his relationship with Terra's brothers and family. They are the only family he has. So he lies to Terra and tells her he doesn't see her the way she sees him. Breaking both of their hearts. Years pass and a lot has changed for the both of them. Jake comes home and he is determined to win Terra and show how far he has come. But his plans don't exactly pan out the way he hoped. Lots of complications arise. And for Terra too, who has recently learned that she needs a kidney and those who are willing to donate, aren't a match. Until Jake is. They may have a lot to figure out when it comes to them and their current predicaments, but nothing has been easier for Jake to say yes to when it comes to saving Terra's life. A good story with, let me tell you, lots of drama and complications for literally everyone. The series go to each of Terra's brothers and from what we have learned so far, I'm interested to see how it plays out for all of them. 

The STEMinist Novellas Book 3: Below Zero by Ali Hazelwood

STEMinist Novellas Book 3

It will take the frosty terrain of the Arctic to show these rival scientists that their chemistry burns hot.

Mara, Sadie, and Hannah are friends first, scientists always. Though their fields of study might take them to different corners of the world, they can all agree on this universal truth: when it comes to love and science, opposites attract and rivals make you burn…

Hannah’s got a bad feeling about this. Not only has the NASA aerospace engineer found herself injured and stranded at a remote Arctic research station—but the one person willing to undertake the hazardous rescue mission is her longtime rival.

Ian has been many things to Hannah: the villain who tried to veto her expedition and ruin her career, the man who stars in her most deliciously lurid dreams…but he’s never played the hero. So why is he risking everything to be here? And why does his presence seem just as dangerous to her heart as the coming snowstorm?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59651553-below-zero

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

And now we have made it to Hannah! Hannah's story jumps from present day where she is currently injured and stuck in the Arctic with no possible help on the way. That is, until she hears Ian's voice on her sat phone where he is telling her to hold on because he is in fact on his way to rescue her. The story then jumps back in time to where she first meets Ian and their few encounters before leading back to the present day story where Hannah has gone from liking Ian to hating him. We get to see what exactly has sparked this dislike despite the fact that this man is on his way in an oncoming snowstorm to rescue her. Could she have gotten something wrong? Hannah doesn't believe in relationships, but believes in hook ups. She believes (based on past experiences) that she isn't built for a real relationship. That anyone that hooks up with her will get bored. But it is clear that Ian is different. But Hannah is used to keeping her distance. But despite the years that have passed since Ian and Hannah first met and Hannah's present day predicament, perhaps there is more to Ian and even herself. Loved this story! I loved Hannah and Ian's chemistry. This was a fun series! And if you are a fan of Ali Hazelwood's books so far, you won't want to miss these!

 

The STEMinist Novellas Book 2: Stuck with You by Ali Hazelwood

STEMinist Novellas Book 2

Nothing like a little rivalry between scientists to take love to the next level.

Mara, Sadie, and Hannah are friends first, scientists always. Though their fields of study might take them to different corners of the world, they can all agree on this universal truth: when it comes to love and science, opposites attract and rivals make you burn…

Logically, Sadie knows that civil engineers are supposed to build bridges. However, as a woman of STEM she also understands that variables can change, and when you are stuck for hours in a tiny New York elevator with the man who broke your heart, you earn the right to burn that brawny, blond bridge to the ground. Erik can apologize all he wants, but to quote her rebel leader—she’d just as soon kiss a Wookiee.

Not even the most sophisticated of Sadie’s superstitious rituals could have predicted such a disastrous reunion. But while she refuses to acknowledge the siren call of Erik’s steely forearms or the way his voice softens when he offers her his sweater, Sadie can’t help but wonder if there might be more layers to her cold-hearted nemesis than meet the eye. Maybe, possibly, even burned bridges can still be crossed….

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59651555-stuck-with-you

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My Review: 4/5 Stars

It's Sadie's turn! And it is another sweet novella in this STEMinist collection. When Sadie meets Erik, it's like everything aligns. They have so much in common, their attraction is undeniable, and they have an amazing day. Until Sadie learns some truths. The story flips between present day and the day she meets Erik and they go on an amazing date. The present day bit has Sadie and Erik stuck in an elevator at work. And it is the last place Sadie wants to be. She hasn't talked to Erik in weeks because of the betrayal she feels toward him the day after her date. But nothing is as it seems as the two are forced to confront one another. Misunderstandings are in the air and Sadie will have to decide just how much she feels about Erik and if things can be made right again. Really liked this story! I loved Erik and Sadie's banter. Now over to the last story and I can't wait to see what Hannah is up to!

The STEMinist Novellas Book 1: Under One Roof by Ali Hazelwood

STEMinst Novellas Book 1

A scientist should never cohabitate with her annoyingly hot nemesis – it leads to combustion.

Mara, Sadie, and Hannah are friends first, scientists always. Though their fields of study might take them to different corners of the world, they can all agree on this universal truth: when it comes to love and science, opposites attract and rivals make you burn….

As an environmental engineer, Mara knows all about the delicate nature of ecosystems. They require balance. And leaving the thermostat alone. And not stealing someone else’s food. And other rules Liam, her detestable big-oil lawyer of a roommate, knows nothing about. Okay, sure, technically she’s the interloper. Liam was already entrenched in his aunt’s house like some glowering grumpy giant when Mara moved in, with his big muscles and kissable mouth just sitting there on the couch tempting respectable scientists to the dark side…but Helena was her mentor and Mara’s not about to move out and give up her inheritance without a fight.

The problem is, living with someone means getting to know them. And the more Mara finds out about Liam, the harder it is to loathe him…and the easier it is to love him.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59651557-under-one-roof

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My Review: 4/5 Stars 

Finally getting around to reading these novellas from Ali Hazelwood and this first one was a lot of fun! Mara's mentor has passed away and left her a surprise. Her home in DC. However, turns out her mentor at this point only owned half the family home. The other half belongs to her nephew, Liam. Someone Mara has never heard about and doesn't understand why this wealthy lawyer is living in this house or why he i trying hard to buy Mara out. But Mara won't let go of her half. Not when it is the last piece of her mentor or that it is close to her new job. Thus begins the roommate wars. Mara tries to play nice but even she caves to some moments of bad roommate etiquette. Yet, when they finally call a truce? The two may realize they have more in common than they think and attraction that is slowly building. Cute story! Mara is a hoot and I can't wait to read the stories about her two friends Sadie and Hannah.  

Cloverleigh Farms Book 9: Tempt by Melanie Harlow

Cloverleigh Farms Book 9

You’ve heard the story about the wedding planner who falls for the groom?

Well, this is the one where she falls for his father.

And that groom? He’s my ex.

I didn’t realize who the gruff, gorgeous older man was the night he rescued me from a creep in a Manhattan hotel bar. All I knew was that a hot, bearded stranger with a protective streak showed up right when I needed a reminder that real gentlemen still exist.

(Although he left his manners behind after asking me up to his room.)

It was the hottest night of my life, but I never thought I’d see the former Navy SEAL again.

Imagine my surprise at the rehearsal dinner one week later, when my sexy one-night stand is introduced as the father of the groom. Even more surprising? That temptation we felt in New York was no fluke.

In public, we pretend there’s nothing between us.

In private, we can’t keep our hands off each other.

The situation is beyond complicated. Zach never even knew he’d fathered a child until recently, and he wants to earn his son’s trust and respect. As for me, I’m looking for a man who wants to start a family, and Zach has made it clear he’s not that man. He’s fifteen years older, newly divorced, and he lives across the country.

But no matter how many times we draw the line, we keep crossing it.

Nothing so wrong should ever feel so right.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62833968-tempt

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I loved this story! We finally get Millie's book and it was just so good. Millie and Zach are everything. What I love about Millie is that she is just such a strong woman who knows exactly what she wants and goes for it. When she was younger, she struggled with her body and self-esteem but then she hit a point and she owned her plus-size body. She owned her curves and who she was and we see how that develops and changes in this story. 

So backing up, we find Millie stuck at hotel for a work event because of bad weather. Her sister encourages her to change up what she does. She keeps meeting the wrong guys and the only way to change that is to do something different. Never would she expect that doing something different would lead to Zach. Zach who protects her and then leads her to one of the best nights of her life. Their chemistry and connection is instant and off the charts. By the next morning, they go their separate ways knowing that the chances of them seeing one another is slim. Even though Zach did leave his number for her. But things get complicated quickly when their paths cross again. Turns out, Zach recently found out he has an adult son and that son is not only getting married but his wedding planner is his ex-girlfriend, Millie. You can't help but laugh and cringe at that unexpected twist. Neither mention that they hooked up when asked how they know one another. And that is the beginning of quite the affair. Both know that keeping a secret like that is wrong and though they have nothing to be ashamed of, they are both adults, they can't help but feel weird about it. Too bad it doesn't seem to keep them from one another. They try to stay friends but the moment they are in the same place, the idea of just friends goes out the window. Both are falling hard and fast but is a future really in the cards for either? 

Like I said, I loved this story. Zach is sweet and kind and protective and cares for Millie a lot. He's slightly older and has had experiences in relationships to the point he thinks he knows what he wants and doesn't. But Millie changes the game for him. Things he thought he didn't want, he may just want with her. And Millie is the sweetest person ever and deserves it all. And despite knowing Zach may not be able to give it to her, she still can't help caring for him. I couldn't put their book down to see how everything would fall together. There were plenty of challenges! You don't want to miss this latest story in this series!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.  

Crave Book 5: Charm by Tracy Wolff

Crave Book 5

He’s under my skin…

After Katmere, I shouldn’t be surprised by anything. Including the existence of a world beyond my world called the Shadow Realm. Yet here I am, stuck in a strange, dangerous place with the worst of the supernaturals, the monster that other monsters fear: Hudson Vega. He might be Jaxon’s brother and ridiculously hot, but he’s a complete bona fide pain in my ass.

The question is whether we’ll find a way out before I kill him…or run out of time.

She’s stealing my heart…

It’s a truth universally known—at least according to Grace—that everything is my fault. But I have a nasty suspicion that Grace isn’t as human as she thinks, and she’s the one keeping us trapped. Now we’ll have to work together not only to survive, but to save all those we’ve come to call family who live here.

Because there’s something connecting us. Something stronger than fear…and way more bloody dangerous.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57939567-charm

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

Wow!! Did I get this book and read it in a day? Yes, yes I did. Was it amazing? Yes, yes it was! Okay first off, if you haven't read the previous books in this series, you need to. And spoilers are coming just a bit for those. So I wondered when I received this book if I was going to prefer to read it after book 1. The answer? Nope. Absolutely not. Highly recommend reading this series in publication order. Because though this book technically takes place in between book 1 and 2, that really doesn't mean much. And you will get spoiled for lots of things coming the rest of the books. What I really also mean by that is, by the end things are coming full circle and obviously hint to book 6 of the series. Also, there are just so many things you'll understand better because you read the rest of the books first. Plus, my biggest thing? How could you read this book and then go to book 2 and not feel AWFUL for Hudson?? Cause damn after this story, I couldn't blame him for his feelings when he realizes that Grace has no recollection of their time together. Poor guy needed a break. I was heartbroken for him knowing what comes next when he is free. So, this story. Yes, it takes place in the missing time when Grace was a statue for four months. But what I thought would have happened, got expanded in so many ways. It made the story that much better. Because despite being gone for 4 months, they were gone a lot longer. Their story and adventures were everything. This is their true first love story and it was just as beautiful as the second time they fell in love. Grace and Hudson grew so much together in this book and basically had to do it all over again in books 2 through 4. And it all goes back to having that time to do it. I loved this story. Their chemistry was always there. They fight and laugh and argue and banter and everything in between. They learn the truths about one another and then get flung somewhere completely new. We meet some great new characters and explore a new place. And one thing I adored about the ending was that it does come full circle and land on a sweeter note that is setting us up better for book 6. I adore this series and I cannot wait for the next book! 

Hidden Scars by Andi Jaxon

Charles Preston Carmichael is the most infuriating man I’ve ever met.

I want to sock the golden boy of college hockey right in the mouth.

He enjoys telling me everything I’m messing up. Publicly.

And since he’s my roommate for the next year, I can’t avoid him.

Yet there’s something about him that makes me watch him.

Something dark.

A secret I want to uncover.

When he returns from a weekend away, broken and haunted, I can’t keep my distance anymore.

He needs someone and I’ll be damned if it’s not me.

Soon my life no longer revolves around hockey, but the nightmares he’s living with.

Desperately I want to save him but I can’t, not yet. The timing has to be just right.

Can I watch him destroy himself as he tries to hold tight to the things that matter or will I be the final hit in the destruction of his life?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62342935-hidden-scars

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

Preston has been abused by his father since he was a child shortly after his mother died. His father is a sick man who uses his skills as a surgeon to cut Preston and stitch him back up among many other things. But Preston knows he would go through it again and again if it meant his sister remains safe. He'll draw attention to himself if it means his father won't turn his attention to Lily. And when Preston is forced to head to Colorado to play for a D1 hockey team, he'll do it. But he doesn't expect to be drawn by Jeremy. Jeremy doesn't understand Preston's problem. The man is a beast on the ice and now as a teammate, you would think the aggression and attitude would go toward opposing teams, not his own teammates. However, despite the snarling and aggressive behavior, Jeremy is drawn to Preston. He starts to see the mask Preston wears and he is realizing that some thing don't add up. And when the two finally give into their sparkling chemistry, Preston realizes that he may have found the one person he could drop his guard around and make him feel safe. Jeremy realizes that his feelings for Preston are only going stronger. He'll do whatever it takes to keep Preston by his side and keep him safe. This story was so good! Despite Preston's attitude early on, you can't help but cheer for Jeremy to get past Preston's walls so he can help. The connection between Preston and Jeremy is strong and they break down one another's walls bit by bit. Really touching story. 

 

Shadow City: Silver Mate Book 1: Shattered Wolf by Jen L. Grey

Silver Mate Book 1

My fated mate ruined my entire world.

After a girls' night out, I returned to my grandparents’ to find their entire pack missing.

The only clue as to where they went came from an awful, gorgeous, infuriating traitor of a man.

I rush to my silver wolf pack, desperate for their help, but the man I find amongst them makes me regret my decision.

The traitor.

His help may be the only chance I have at finding my family--and to make things worse, I realize that he's my fated mate.

Determined to keep my distance, I'm fighting the bond with everything I have.

I can't lose focus, because losing my family isn't an option. I'll do whatever it takes to protect them...even if it costs my life, or my mate.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62877808-shattered-wolf

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

We finally get Killian's story! The guy definitely deserves to find his fated mate and with this story he finally goes. Meet Jewel. She is the daughter of Bart. The silver wolf alpha who was the uncle to Sterlyn and Cyrus, but died protecting them. Jewel has been away at her grandparents' pack since losing her dad to deal with her grief. Almost ready to return to the silver wolf pack, she returns back to her grandparents' pack land with her friend to discover the entire pack is missing! They have no idea what happened. How could a whole pack be missing? Or worse, taken? And just as they are looking for clues, they discover not only have humans been here, but a shifter as announced to the world that the supernatural world is real. Before they can digest that, they are chased by humans and luckily escape. Jewel heads home to the silver wolf pack for help. In doing so she meets Killian aka the person who's responsible for telling the world about them and if the yanking feeling and her wolf's sudden interest is right, her fated mate. But how can she be the one who put her family in danger? Killian has his reasons, but he will do whatever it takes to get Jewel's family back and prove to her that she is it for him. Finding his fated mate is everything to him and he won't lose her before ever truly knowing her. Jewel wants to remain angry at him but how can she he is constantly proving to be the most patient, understanding, and all around good guy? Loved this pairing! Like I said Killian deserves a happy ending. And this is the first time we really see Jewel and she is just another great character to add to this group! Looking forward to seeing how the rest of their story plays out. 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

CU Hockey Book 5: Puck Drills & Quick Thrills by Eden Finley & Saxon James

CU Hockey

WESTLY

The fall from NHL superstar to domestic disaster was swift and painful. When I became the legal guardian of my five younger siblings, I had no idea what I was doing.

One year later, I’m still lost.

Coaching CU’s hockey team might be the only thing I’m excelling at. But when our star forward is failing math, I have to do what it takes to keep him on the team. Even if it’s going head-to-head with Jasper Eckstein.

One minute I’m confronting the notorious hockey-hating professor, and the next I’m agreeing to be his date to his twenty-year high school reunion.

I don’t know how that happened.

JASPER

My rules are simple. I don’t give extra credit. Ever. No matter how entitled jocks think they are, I refuse to give them special treatment.

It's not because I hate them. It's not because a hockey player broke my nose in high school.

It's fair.

But when Westly Dalton bursts into my office like a hurricane, all my principles fly out the window.

Suddenly I'm giving extra credit.

And I have a date to my reunion.

After one explosive night together, I want more, but his home life is a mess, and I don't want to get in the way. If all we can have is quick thrills, I’m okay with that.

It’s not like I could ever fall for a jock. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58405132-puck-drills-quick-thrills

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

I've made it to the last book in this series and like the previous books, this one was great! It's Westly and Jasper's turn. Westly is drowning when it comes to balancing taking care of his siblings and working his coaching job. After losing his dad and stepmom in a car accident a year ago, him and his brother Asher become the guardians for their five younger siblings. Asher's book was before this one, so you saw a bit of what they are going through and what Wes has been going through too. But what you don't know is that in the chaos, he meets someone. What starts off as Wes charging to the college's math department to demand why Asher can't be given extra credit considering the circumstances, turns into a lot more than he ever imagined. Jasper has a reason to be a little wary of hockey players. He was bullied a lot in high school to the point where it got very violent. He can't stand a bully and refuses to let the jocks of the college get away with anything. He stands his ground against Wes... until he realizes that Wes wasn't supporting a brother who is too lazy to do the work, but is struggling to coparent a house of kids. So he breaks his rule, what he doesn't expect is for Wes to be so grateful and then offer to do go as Jasper's date to his high school reunion. Jasper hopes to prove to those who picked on him that he has come a long way from the kid he was. And Wes proves to Jasper that he is the exact opposite of the people he knew in high school. And turns out, he may just like Wes a lot more than he realized despite him being a hockey player. The two of them have great chemistry and I loved their story! Wes has so much going on and Jasper is so patient and understanding. Great end to this series! And I unintentionally read the sequel series first. But it was nice to rewind and catch the stories of those who make cameos!  

CU Hockey Book 4: Line Mates & Study Dates by Eden Finley & Saxon James

CU Hockey Book 4

ASHER

Hockey, studying, and school runs. That’s my life now.

After a tragic accident that took our parents’ lives, it’s up to me and my big brother to take care of our five younger siblings.

In between burning their meals and keeping them from killing each other, I’m supposed to get a college degree. It’s hard when I don’t have time to breathe let alone study, and if I don’t get my grades up, I’m in danger of losing the one thing that makes me happy: my spot on the hockey team.

Which is why when the new equipment manager offers to tutor me, I really can’t afford to say no. Even though I should.

He’s Coach’s son and way too tempting.

KOLE

As this year’s equipment manager for Dad’s hockey team, I’m expected to deal with sweaty jock straps and herding hockey players to their rooms at away games.

The job is easy, but babysitting Asher Dalton is not supposed to be a part of it.

So why, when his brother asks me to keep an eye on him, do I agree?

Why, when he’s struggling in classes, do I offer to help?

And why, when we’re studying, do I suggest a reward system that lands us squarely in bed?

Asher's trouble, I know he is. But there's something about him that makes it impossible to stay away.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57537914-line-mates-study-dates

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

After losing his dad and stepmom in a car accident, Asher and his wold brother Wes are the guardians of their five younger siblings. His dream of playing in the NHL has been put on hold for now and in the meantime he is going to CU to get an education and play on the hockey team in the hopes that in a few years, his family will be in better shape for him to pursue his dreams. But grief, the responsibility of taking care of five kids, pressure of school, and not getting along great with new teammates may be just a bit too much for Asher. He's already made some self-destructing choices along the way but what will it take for him to take a moment and just be? Well that turns out to be Kole. Kole, the coach's son and the team's new equipment manager. Kole lost a bet with his dad and now is stuck working for the hockey team. And when his path crosses Asher's he's not sure what he can do when Wes asks him to look out for Asher. But it isn't Wes's request that has Kole making friends with Asher and offering to help him study. No. It's what he sees when he looks past the walls Asher has worked hard to build around himself. And when they finally give in to the chemistry between them? Well, feelings to start form pretty fast. Loved their story! Kole and Asher are such a great pairing. Asher has been through so much but you can see how hard he is trying and Kole realizes more than anything that Asher needs a friend. Their friendship that starts builds into such a sweet relationship between the two of them. Another great one to this series and I'm looking forward to the next one!

CU Hockey Book 3: Goal Lines & First Times by Eden Finley & Saxon James

CU Hockey Book 3

COHEN

It turns out making out with my best friend in high school could be considered gay. Who knew? Apparently, everyone but me.

Now that it’s been pointed out, I can’t help reliving it in my head. Repeatedly. Goodbye Denial Town, hello Confusionville.

When my path leads me down the gay dating app route, I don’t expect to meet anyone I like, but then I meet him.

He can’t be more opposite than me. He’s smart, he hates hockey, and he identifies as demi—something I’ve never heard of.

Yet I can’t deny something’s there. Something I want to explore in person. If only I could get him to agree.

SETH

All my life, I’ve felt broken.

Sick of being asked if I could be gay by ex-girlfriends, friends, and even my parents, I join a gay dating app to prove a point.

I don’t expect to find what’s always been missing. A real connection.

The problem is, I’m too scared to meet him in person. He’s a hockey player, and I fear when he finds out my twin plays for the NHL, I’ll be overshadowed by my overachieving brother. Again.

Worse yet, what happens if we meet and that connection isn’t the same?

When I tell him I’m not ready, he’s disappointed but supportive. Fate, on the other hand, isn’t as accepting.

I had no idea the person I’ve been falling for is someone I already know.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56225260-goal-lines-first-times

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

Cohen and Seth's turn and it was so good! Seth is really tired of everyone questioning his sexuality. It's hard enough for him to figure it out, he doesn't really appreciate everyone's opinion. So when his latest girlfriend breaks up with him, he can't help but blurt out a legitimate reason why. And is surprised when she gives him some pretty solid insight. This leads to creating an online dating profile. He can figure out his sexuality and get that emotional connection first before actually meeting anyone in person. It takes off the pressure of the physical parts of the relationship, while also getting to know someone. Too bad online dating isn't easy. At least until he meets Richie. Richie aka Cohen has come to learn that perhaps kissing your guy best friend in high school isn't exactly normal. And he is having his own struggle of figuring out his identity. And when his best friend suggests a dating app, he goes for it. And meets Seth. But he doesn't know it is Seth. Seth isn't keen on releasing his name and Cohen calls him Einstein. And everyone on campus calls Richie by his last name Cohen. So when his profile says Richie, it's safe to say Seth has no clue. As they spend months and months texting and getting to know one another, they start to realize that perhaps they do have a connection. But both are willing to take it slow as they figure themselves out. And when it comes close to wanting to meet... well, it's not in the way either expect! I loved their story! Each of them have a journey to find out who they are and what they want. And when they get to know someone and connect, they start to realize that gender doesn't matter for either. It's really who that person is inside. Such a sweet story! Seth and Cohen fit so well together even when they crossed paths before knowing who other truly was. Loving this series and I'm on to the next one!

CU Hockey Book 2: Face Offs & Cheap Shots by Eden Finley & Saxon James

CU Hockey Book 2

JACOBS

For the last three years, I’ve lived and breathed hockey with one goal: team captain.

There’s only one thing standing in my way. TJ Beckett.

Beck is irresponsible and immature, and I’ve hated him since the moment we met freshman year.

Yet, the coaches see something in him I obviously can’t, and they refuse to choose between us. The captain spot is going to a team vote, and the team thinks that what we need are a bunch of challenges to prove our worth. Challenges that have nothing to do with hockey. Challenges that are throwing me and Beck together.

And he’s still as infuriating as ever.

BECK

I have no idea why Christopher Jacobs hates me, and I can’t say I care. I like pushing his buttons, but the guy needs to loosen up. I’m going to win these stupid challenges easily and spend my senior year as hockey king on this campus.

Tormenting Jacobs at the same time will just be a bonus.

Even if I’m getting confusing feelings toward him, I won’t let it hold me back.

When it comes to competing, I’m all in, and nothing will get between me and the W. 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54866923-face-offs-cheap-shots

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

Jacobs and Beck in the last 3 years that they've known one another, have never really gotten along. Well, maybe it was more Jacobs not liking Beck's immaturity and irresponsibleness. And maybe Beck loves pushing Jacobs buttons just a bit. But when their coach tells them they are both up for captain this year, neither are willing to back down. Cue the summer of hockey training camp and of stupid challenges from their teammates to determine who is captain. And when a challenge issues for Jacobs and Beck to kiss... well that changes everything. Suddenly the tension that was always between them and the looks exchanged start to have meaning. And one kiss leads to many more. And turns out, they may not hate one another as much as they think. Loved this story! Jacobs and Beck have great banter and it was such a fun story to see those two figure out who they were and how together they just fit and are so right. I'm really liking this series so far and I can't wait to finish it out!

Stonefire Dragons Universe Book 3: Finding Dragon's Court by Jessie Donovan

Stonefire Dragons Universe Book 3

To the world, Dr. Maximillian Holbrook projects himself as a chatty buffoon. It ensures everyone underestimates him, especially when it comes to his rivals. And it's worked, too, until an Australian dragon-shifter starts outsmarting him. That she's a woman doesn't matter to him. No, he'll do whatever it takes to find the legendary Dragon's Court, even if it means chaining her up to keep her out of the way.

Dr. Lavinia Walker overcame her past to become one of the best dragon-shifter archaeologists in Australia. So much so, she manages to snag a rare visa to excavate in the UK. It's been a life-long dream to discover the ruins of Queen Alviva's descendants and to finally shed light on what the dragons did once the Romans left Britain. She's so close to locating it but has one problem—a human male who’s as determined as she is. When he plays dirty, she does too.

However, when a kiss changes their lives, Max and Lavinia have to decide if they are more to each other than mere rivals. As they race against the clock to solve the last clue, will they be able to work together? Or are they both too stubborn to give up and risk any chance of a future with each other?

https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/63004377-finding-dragon-s-court

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My Review: 5/5 Stars

This was such a fun novella in the Stonefire Universe! Lavinia and Max's rivalry to be the first to find the Dragon Court is a great enemies to lovers story. Both are archaeologists and are determined to find the court first, no matter what it takes. That may or may not include knocking the other unconscious or handcuffing them to a bed. Their rivalry is a ton of fun to read. Neither are afraid to play dirty. And that may be the very thing that changes their futures forever. One kiss and the game changes. Now it is up to them to decide if perhaps that there is just a bit more to their relationship than rivals. They'll have to work together and be vulnerable to one another to get the future they both have always wanted. Definitely a fun story! And an excellent addition to this world. 

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

CU Hockey Book 1: Power Plays & Straight A's by Eden Finley & Saxon James

CU Hockey Book 1

FOSTER

“Look out for Zach and don’t hit on him.”

My brother’s request sounds easy enough. Keep an eye out for his best friend on campus and keep my hands to myself.

Easy.

Even if Zach is a quintessential nerd, who I’ve always thought was cute, I don’t have the time to think with my … stick.

There’s only one stick I should be focused on this year, and that’s my hockey stick. My goal once I graduate is to get an NHL contract.

The last thing I need is a distraction. On or off the ice.

Only, keeping to the rules is harder than I thought it would be.

ZACH

People confuse me.

And no one more than Foster Grant.

I’ve barely spoken two words to him in the whole time I’ve known him, but the second I step foot on campus, he’s impossible to shake.

I can never anticipate his next move. And whenever we’re together, my next move is a total mystery as well.

I want to give in to him, but that might mean coming clean about something I’ve never been bothered about before.

I’m still carrying my V-card.

And I think it’s time to turn it in.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53336266-power-plays-straight-a-s

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My Review: 5/5 Stars 

So I may have started this hockey universe a little backwards when I read the series that takes place on the timeline after this series, but it's totally okay! All the small mentions of these guys I saw in the Puckboys series will now come full circle since I'm going back! I really liked this one! Foster and Zach were too cute. Zach isn't good with people but it doesn't stop him from making an effort to get out of his comfort zone. Even if that means some stuttering, babbling, and hiding when the time comes for it. But he leaves his best friend, Seth, to do his masters at their rival college in order to take a step toward independence. What he doesn't expect is for Seth's brother to enter his atmosphere. The brother he can't stop looking at and who actually treats him as an equal who doesn't always need protecting. Foster has had a crush on Zach for too long. But when his brother declares Zach is off limits, he listens. That is, until Zach is on his turf at CU. What started as a promise to check up on Zach per his brother's request, turns into wanting to be around him simply because he likes him and makes him happy. The crush is certainly not gone and Foster wants to go for it. Because Zach draws him in like no other. As the two of the figure out a relationship between them, Zach has his studies to focus on and Foster is plans for a future in hockey. But find themselves more distracted than they want to admit. Loved them! Their story was so sweet and refreshing. They are pretty opposite in personalities but bring out the best in one another. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this series!